Henry Vilas Zoo announces Kids Day, Party for the Planet events - Channel3000.com - WISC-TV3

MADISON, Wis. - Henry Vilas Zoo is planning two Saturdays of family fun in April, in recognition of the zoo's two primary priorities — education for kids and families and helping species survive, a release said.

Kids Day, a day with a noon talk about polar bears, free train and carousel rides and free ice cream and hot dogs for kids under 12, will be April 6. Train rides will also be free each weekend in April for "Earth Month."

"This zoo belongs to the families of this community and we're dedicating these Saturdays to celebrate a focus on why we do, what we do," Zoo Director Ronda Schwetz said.

The zoo is also planning "Party for the Planet" on April 27. The event is a commemoration of the zoo's conservation efforts. The zoo, which is AZA accredited, is part of the International Species Survival Program which preserves endangered species populations.

Party for the Planet will have seedling giveaways, tree climbs, games, a solar presentation by Madison Gas and Electric, electric vehicles and other educational displays.

"Habitat loss and extinction of species, whether half way around the world or right here in our backyard, are two of the most devastating impacts of climate change," said Keith Reopell, the director of Dane County's office of energy and climate change.

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